NationStates Jolt Archive

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.

I'm hoping the good folks of NSG could enlighten me on the do's and don'ts in this part of the world. I'd like to be minimally irritating and as polite as I could be.

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.

I'm hoping the good folks of NSG could enlighten me on the do's and don'ts in this part of the world. I'd like to be minimally irritating and as polite as I could be.Pretend to be Canadian.

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.

I'm hoping the good folks of NSG could enlighten me on the do's and don'ts in this part of the world. I'd like to be minimally irritating and as polite as I could be.

Wear a T-shirt with the Canadian flag on it.

Pretend to be Canadian.

Dammit you got yours in before mine :mad::p

By seconds, even!

I thought the Europeans were wise to the Canadian trick. I was thinking about saying I was from Guam.:P

Regardless of what kind of t-shirt you wear, the one thing you should not do is invade Iraq for no fucking reason and then brag about it.

Also, try not to choke too obviously on the local food when you get invited to a block party or whatever they have over there among the heathens.

Hold your knife and fork correctly. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zigzag_method#European_.28Continental.29_style)

1) saying your from New York/New England will cut some slack
2) at every possibility in Norway bring up Sweden >.>
3) we are much less "how do you do" in Europe...don't talk to us

you should get along fine I guess though I'm surprised you moved to Norway of all places? do you already know the language or will you plan on picking it up :confused:

Regardless of what kind of t-shirt you wear, the one thing you should not do is invade Iraq for no fucking reason and then brag about it.

oddly I for one would be just startled, it won't be the first time I've heard it anyway

but then I'm British

Do not assume each country in Europe is really similar and do not assume that the way you should act is the same in each European country.

1) saying your from New York/New England will cut some slack
2) at every possibility in Norway bring up Sweden >.>
3) we are much less "how do you do" in Europe...don't talk to us

you should get along fine I guess though I'm surprised you moved to Norway of all places? do you already know the language or will you plan on picking it up :confused:
I'm learning the language. There's only so much one can pick up from distance learning though. My language classes here start September 9th.

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.

I'm hoping the good folks of NSG could enlighten me on the do's and don'ts in this part of the world. I'd like to be minimally irritating and as polite as I could be.

Yay! Congrats on the move.

(When you've settled in and have a sec, I still need to talk to you and Grav about the webboard game I mentioned last week.)

Just don't expect things of people unreasonably. I can't remember if you had a habit of doing that or not.

Wisen up on local history and culture. Norway, like EVERY European nation, tends to be a proud country. Be careful what you say.

Try not to be arrogant. Respect them and don't compare everything to the US. Stereotyping a bit here, but try to shake the "We're American so we're the best and nothing we ever do can ever be wrong" thing.

^That is your basic Europe survival guide. Check those boxes and all will be well.

Good luck =]

Now, I'm an american who';s never been to europe, but I can still give this advice:

Be anti-bush.

As crazy as it sounds, he's even less popular east of the atlantic than here in the US. Therefore, you don't have to worry that people will be offended when you explain how much you hate him.

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.
From my experience, Norway is one of the more US-friendly nations in Europe. You generally shouldn't have to worry too much about trying to fit in; just don't be a dick and don't criticise the country (they're pretty nationalistic, but in a nice way) and it'll work out fine.

Do not assume each country in Europe is really similar and do not assume that the way you should act is the same in each European country.

you mean I can't jump up and down demanding that the continentals speak Gods tongue?!

I'm learning the language. There's only so much one can pick up from distance learning though. My language classes here start September 9th.

madness :p

Do not assume each country in Europe is really similar and do not assume that the way you should act is the same in each European country.

I realize that. I just know I'll be taking advantage of Ryanair while I'm here, so I'm kind of looking for a general reference.

Right now I know that in Norway I must always take my shoes off when entering a home, leave a spoonful of something on my plate, never ask for a doggie bag in a restaurant, and I should use a knife and fork with everything except fast food, and never make a disparaging comment about whaling.

In France I know I'm not supposed to ask for butter for my bread.

I don't know anything beyond that.

For the record, I have credentials as an American moving to Europe, so ignore the rest of these people and trust me, it's no big deal.

Make sure to mention that you consider Vidkun Quisling a great Norwegian hero and brave leader.

I realize that. I just know I'll be taking advantage of Ryanair while I'm here, so I'm kind of looking for a general reference.

Right now I know that in Norway I must always take my shoes off when entering a home, leave a spoonful of something on my plate, never ask for a doggie bag in a restaurant, and I should use a knife and fork with everything except fast food, and never make a disparaging comment about whaling.

In France I know I'm not supposed to ask for butter for my bread.

I don't know anything beyond that.

Get wine in Paris. It's cheaper, and generally healthier, than the water.

Don't mention the war. Seriously. We know that you bailed us out, and yes we're grateful, but let it go.

I realize that. I just know I'll be taking advantage of Ryanair while I'm here, so I'm kind of looking for a general reference.

Right now I know that in Norway I must always take my shoes off when entering a home, leave a spoonful of something on my plate, never ask for a doggie bag in a restaurant, and I should use a knife and fork with everything except fast food, and never make a disparaging comment about whaling.

In France I know I'm not supposed to ask for butter for my bread.

I don't know anything beyond that.

Woah, we've been doing all these things for two years. Either they're overstated or archaic. It's what people tend to do, but no one's going to call you out on it or anything.

Oh, but bathrooms and toilets are different, many places will have trouble with that.

Make sure to mention that you consider Vidkun Quisling a great Norwegian hero and brave leader.

Bad Vetalia! Bad!

Yay! Congrats on the move.

(When you've settled in and have a sec, I still need to talk to you and Grav about the webboard game I mentioned last week.)
Okey doke. I am looking forward to that.
Just don't expect things of people unreasonably. I can't remember if you had a habit of doing that or not.
I'm actually the kind of person that goes out of my way not to be a bother, so that shouldn't be an issue.

Wisen up on local history and culture. Norway, like EVERY European nation, tends to be a proud country. Be careful what you say.

Try not to be arrogant. Respect them and don't compare everything to the US. Stereotyping a bit here, but try to shake the "We're American so we're the best and nothing we ever do can ever be wrong" thing.

^That is your basic Europe survival guide. Check those boxes and all will be well.

Good luck =]
I thankfully don't have the "America pwns all" attitude. I could see where comparisons could come across as arrogant when I'd only mean them as observation, so I'll be mindful of that.

Now, I'm an american who';s never been to europe, but I can still give this advice:

Be anti-bush.

As crazy as it sounds, he's even less popular east of the atlantic than here in the US. Therefore, you don't have to worry that people will be offended when you explain how much you hate him.
That won't be a problem at all.

From my experience, Norway is one of the more US-friendly nations in Europe. You generally shouldn't have to worry too much about trying to fit in; just don't be a dick and don't criticise the country (they're pretty nationalistic, but in a nice way) and it'll work out fine.
That's good to know.

madness :p
I was trying to learn the language on my own but the semantics and grammer were killing me. I hope I do better now that I'm here.

Bad Vetalia! Bad!

I guess it could come in handy if you ever fall in to the clutches of neo-Nazis...

For the record, I have credentials as an American moving to Europe, so ignore the rest of these people and trust me, it's no big deal.
Awesome.
Make sure to mention that you consider Vidkun Quisling a great Norwegian hero and brave leader.
:p
Get wine in Paris. It's cheaper, and generally healthier, than the water.
And it gets you drunk.
Don't mention the war. Seriously. We know that you bailed us out, and yes we're grateful, but let it go.
I can imagine that gets old.
Woah, we've been doing all these things for two years. Either they're overstated or archaic. It's what people tend to do, but no one's going to call you out on it or anything.

Oh, but bathrooms and toilets are different, many places will have trouble with that.
It was Fass that shared the eating rules.

I don't like that none of the bathrooms seem to have fans in them. I also don't like having to pay to use the toilet.

Now, I'm an american who';s never been to europe, but I can still give this advice:

Be anti-bush.

As crazy as it sounds, he's even less popular east of the atlantic than here in the US. Therefore, you don't have to worry that people will be offended when you explain how much you hate him.

Better idea: don't talk to strangers about politics.

Be prepared to love the Great Outdoors. It's more than likely your hosts/future friends/random Norwegians are going to ask you out hiking/trekking. They love the outdoors... and have a good reason to.

If you are a drinking man... I'm so, so sorry. Be prepared to pay an arm and a leg for your whisky or vodka. But no worries: beer is NOW available in every county in Norway.

And don't worry. People in Nordic countries are more than hospitable. You'll soon learn the ropes.

(i take it you are an exchange student...no?)

It was Fass that shared the eating rules.

Okay, Fass would call you out on it, true. Take that as you will. :tongue:

I don't like that none of the bathrooms seem to have fans in them. I also don't like having to pay to use the toilet.

:$

Hold your knife and fork correctly. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zigzag_method#European_.28Continental.29_style)

Actually most people hold their knife in their left hand not right.

Edvard Grieg is "the composer."

Norway does not equal Viking.

Learn to like fish.

Common courtesy goes a long, long way - Please, thank you and excuse me work everywhere.

This may be helpful - http://www.norway.org/

This may be helpful - http://www.norway.org/
It sure is! Did you know Norwegian jazz musicians Frode Gjerstad and Paal Nilssen-Love team up Marshall Allen for a gig at the Ars Nova Workshop in Philadelphia on August 28? I didn't! :D

Sorry. Sarcasm.


Might want to find an Ex-Pat forum like this http://www.alloexpat.com/moving_to_norway_forum/
They tend to be more useful than the formal ones.

just be yourself. and for the love of god don't compare everything to the US. like the Girl from Iceland does here (in the US) for the love of god i don't care that you think Icelandic hotdogs are better or that you think all Americans are out of style.

You should be fine. :wink:

Only thing I can think of right now is that some people may seem rude, but Europeans (well, Scandinavians) tend to be a little more quiet than Americans.

You should be fine. :wink:

Only thing I can think of right now is that some people may seem rude, but Europeans (well, Scandinavians) tend to be a little more quiet than Americans.

well sounds anti social. American guy when you go there be sure to talk to everyone there for no reason.

Every US American should know that Europe is awesome, beautiful and full of history that far exceeds the two hundred years that we generally care about.

It's diverse, and one can learn a lot in a short period of time just by walking down some of the streets there.

Traveling to other countries is generally easy and fun when in most European countries.

Learn how to pronounce Haakon.

They've had seven kings named Haakon (soon to be eight), so you need to learn to pronounce it.

Norway was also the last place in Europe to adopt Christianity (officially happend in the mid 11th century, but the populace was still hanging with Thor as late as the mid-14th century), so be respectful of their pre-Christian beliefs.

Hold your knife and fork correctly. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zigzag_method#European_.28Continental.29_style)
I had no idea that's how Americans used ther forks.

How inefficient, swapping the fork back and forth like that.

Learn how to pronounce Haakon.

They've had seven kings named Haakon (soon to be eight), so you need to learn to pronounce it.

Norway was also the last place in Europe to adopt Christianity (officially happend in the mid 11th century, but the populace was still hanging with Thor as late as the mid-14th century), so be respectful of their pre-Christian beliefs.

I beg to differ. There was already one Håkon crusading when the Swedes were still persuading the Finns to adopt Christianity.

(Never mind that, if you don't count Finns as Europeans, or some such)

I guess it could come in handy if you ever fall in to the clutches of neo-Nazis...
Or Varg Vikernes.

Norway was also the last place in Europe to adopt Christianity (officially happend in the mid 11th century, but the populace was still hanging with Thor as late as the mid-14th century), so be respectful of their pre-Christian beliefs.

ummm hate to burst your bubble but that was Lithuania in 1387. with pagans remaining until the 17th century. sorry my anal history major self had to say something.

why are you in norway? how long are you planning on living there?

I beg to differ. There was already one Håkon crusading when the Swedes were still persuading the Finns to adopt Christianity.
The Norwegian royals converted well before their people, but your point is taken. I admit I don't know when Finns generally converted.

And I should. I'm a big fan of the Finnish music scene.

ummm hate to burst your bubble but that was Lithuania in 1387. with pagans remaining until the 17th century. sorry my anal history major self had to say something.
Apparently I'm wrong twice.

Still, my point stands to some degree. Christianity is still relatively new to Norway.

Apparently I'm wrong twice.

Still, my point stands to some degree. Christianity is still relatively new to Norway.
Point taken.
Relatively new. Less than a millennia.

So advice to Snafturi: Don't cross your hands in public places.

Apparently I'm wrong twice.

Still, my point stands to some degree. Christianity is still relatively new to Norway.

well if it makes you feel better Norway is regarded as the last of the Germanic countries to adopt Christianity.

Hold your knife and fork correctly. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zigzag_method#European_.28Continental.29_style)

heh, that's a good one. easy way to spot an american :P

just be yourself and you'll be fine though. wouldn't help to learn some norwegian of course. learn up on the metric system, too.

oh and i'm not sure if its the same in Norway, but don't order Budweiser, cos we generally refer to it as 'crap' ;):p

also - big one this - don't refer to any one part of Europe as "Europe" (e.g. "i'm living in Europe")... say Norway. much as we're all close and all, we still mostly refer to our own countries and some do get annoyed when we get lumped in with the whole continent. personally, i don't mind, and maybe its a UK thing, but some people really get cheesed off about it.

well sounds anti social. American guy when you go there be sure to talk to everyone there for no reason.

At high volume. We love that.

But nah, you should be fine. We don't bite. There's assholes, of course, but that's the same as anyplace. I've met many Americans on my travels around Europe, and they're generally funny sexy weed-smoking people. It's probably a self-selecting kind of thing, as the kind of Americans that tend to move or travel Europe are percisely the kind of Americans that Europeans like.

Norway, eh...

Start listening to various types of metal music and you'll do fine.

Actually most people hold their knife in their left hand not right.
In which weird land is this?

Knife is ALWAYS in the right hand and fork in your left (if you hold a knife). Also, in every non-casual eating situation you always have fork & knife in hand at the same time (unless it's soup, naturally).

Hm? Knife in left hand? If you're not left handed that should be a drag.

Also, for the OP, the only advice I can give is don't be an ugly American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugly_American) - and you seem to be far from being one so you should be OK.

I've never visited Norway so I'm not sure about their specifics but keeping with the status quo as long as you don't mind and it does not inconvenience you is a generally good idea when you're coping with living in another country.

However, as stuck up as Europeans may seem most people would not find it even odd that you hold the knife in your left hand. Entering people's homes with shoes on may be a hygiene concern and there may be other small things you may have to change about yourself when you're with company but I don't believe any of the cultural differences will be much of a problem as long as you're careful not to ridicule/insult the people, land, history, myths and beliefs, and popular likes - which is applicable not only for Europe but for each and every country I can think of :)

Cheerio!

Do not assume each country in Europe is really similar and do not assume that the way you should act is the same in each European country.

^This

Generally I'd just say: don't make assumptions, don't expect things to be either the same as the US or the same as other countries, and above all, if in doubt ask! Realtistically no one expects you to know all the local customs, but people will appreciate it if you make an effort to learn.

as long as ruffy doesn't try to act like he/she (i have no idea which) knows more then everyone else in the world how to act and live (which obviously he/she knows better then already or wouldn't be asking this) he/she ought to get along all right.

what EVERY american needs to understand about europe (my completely subjective opinion, having never been there myself), is that while it is composed and dominated primarily by nations the a few centuries, even as little as decades or years, ago, had been, or tried to have been, as notorioulsy naughty internationally as america is today, they still don't worship the automobile as much, nor put little green pieces of paper as far ahead of the kind of world we all have to live in, as america does. and THAT is a lesson america itself, could damd well learn from.

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.
Congrats, first on the move...that took a lot of balls...sheesh, I'm just relocating to Montreal! All the way to Norway? That rocks pretty hard and yay for you!

I'm hoping the good folks of NSG could enlighten me on the do's and don'ts in this part of the world. I'd like to be minimally irritating and as polite as I could be.
That's going to take a lot more than a few fun facts about Norway or Europe :D

Don't assume all Europe is the same. Tipping in restaurants is expected in the UK because staff are badly paid, but in Iceland is rare.

Don't assume all Europe is the same. Tipping in restaurants is expected in the UK because staff are badly paid, but in Iceland is rare.

I think it would be fair to mention that it's something just below 10% what you would tip here... I've seen Americans tipping frankly ridiculous amounts.

Also, in some countries, you tip taxi drivers, tour guides and hair dressers. Don't know if that applies to Norway.

Learn Metric and use it in everyday life.
(Ignore Learn Metric as appropriate)

Don't assume all Europe is the same. Tipping in restaurants is expected in the UK because staff are badly paid, but in Iceland is rare.

If Norway is anything like Finland and apparently Iceland (all nordic countries, btw), tipping is usually completely voluntary and not leaving tip is not regarded as bad manners.

Don't assume all Europe is the same. Tipping in restaurants is expected in the UK because staff are badly paid, but in Iceland is rare.

You know I would say that it isn't expected in the UK. I would say that one only tips if you feel the service was worth tipping.

I think it would be fair to mention that it's something just below 10% what you would tip here... I've seen Americans tipping frankly ridiculous amounts.

Also, in some countries, you tip taxi drivers, tour guides and hair dressers. Don't know if that applies to Norway.

In the U.S., tips are--or at least so I was taught--15% of the total cost of the meal.

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.

Start by not referring to it as 'Europe. Norway to be specific.' It's Norway. If you want to be less specific, it's Scandinavia.

US people abroad do not have a great reputation for their willingness to try and/or respect things which are (to them) new and exotic. Don't let that worry you - in fact you can very easily turn it to your advantage, simply by not living up to that stereotype. People will be pleasantly surprised, and will warm to you even quicker.

Actually most people hold their knife in their left hand not right.
They... do? Which country are we talking here? I've never seen that anywhere before.
I had no idea that's how Americans used ther forks.

How inefficient, swapping the fork back and forth like that.
Totally.

Hm? Knife in left hand? If you're not left handed that should be a drag.I disagree wholeheartedly. I hate using a knife in my right hand when using knife and fork. All I'm doing with the knife is cutting, but that fork is heading in direction of my face, so I prefer using my more dextrous hand.

the most important thing that Americans need to know is that the drinking age 18 in most of europe, even lower in some places. lol
I dont know anyone who
swaps there fork back and forth mine stays in my left hand the whole time(unless i put it down i guess)

I disagree wholeheartedly. I hate using a knife in my right hand when using knife and fork. All I'm doing with the knife is cutting, but that fork is heading in direction of my face, so I prefer using my more dextrous hand.

Yeah I chop and change, but normaly I hold my knife in my left hand. Strange thing is, when I'm stoned, the order gets reversed?

In the U.S., tips are--or at least so I was taught--15% of the total cost of the meal.

In several European countries the tip is already included in the price. But 10%seems to be more common if a tip is given.

Maybe the issue with forks is the fact you European weirdos even think about it. Hell, I never even realized that I 'zigzag'd until the idea was specifically told to me.

Maybe the issue with forks is the fact you European weirdos even think about it. Hell, I never even realized that I 'zigzag'd until the idea was specifically told to me.

Proper etiqute old chap!

Ah, Norway. Here are some tips:

* get used to black metal played in elevators/lifts (frickin' AEng/BEng differences!).
* be wary when around churches - they're prone to burn.
* I hope you're not allergic to cosmetics - corpse paint is part of formal wear there.
* prepare your throat for hard work, if you want to speak Norwegian - all the continuous growling puts some really severe strain on it.
* the winter is all year long (see famous national epic - "Grim And Frostbitten Kingdoms").

http://images.wikia.com/nonsensopedia/images/2/26/Norwegia.JPG

To return to politics: forget the "there are only Republicans/Democrats idea". You will soon discover that they are tiny and rather insignificant specks in the HUGE spectrum of political parties - and that they are both considered center-rightwing.

Ah, Norway.

http://images.wikia.com/nonsensopedia/images/2/26/Norwegia.JPG

Ah, Norway

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/853/flagofnorway3yf5.png

:wink:

Ah, Venice.

http://annakevin.com/images/Indy_venice.jpg

Hold your knife and fork correctly. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zigzag_method#European_.28Continental.29_style)

Apparently, I eat in an almost American style. I prefer to hold the fork in th e right hand whenever possible.

Thank you everyone for your great comments and adivce so far.:wink:
well sounds anti social. American guy when you go there be sure to talk to everyone there for no reason.
And in English of course. Cuz everyone should be fluent in English.
Every US American should know that Europe is awesome, beautiful and full of history that far exceeds the two hundred years that we generally care about.

It's diverse, and one can learn a lot in a short period of time just by walking down some of the streets there.

Traveling to other countries is generally easy and fun when in most European countries.
The history here is amazing. I'm also shocked at how much of an impact WWII had here. It's one thing to read about it, it's quite another to stand on a spot where Nazi's executed people.

why are you in norway? how long are you planning on living there?
My marketing job ended, so I decided to take a sabbatical. I'm working as a nanny here for up to 2 years. I'm also here because of Gravlen.:)
oh and i'm not sure if its the same in Norway, but don't order Budweiser, cos we generally refer to it as 'crap' ;):p
I prefer Mexican crap to Budweiser. Tecate and Corona are my kind of crap.

also - big one this - don't refer to any one part of Europe as "Europe" (e.g. "i'm living in Europe")... say Norway. much as we're all close and all, we still mostly refer to our own countries and some do get annoyed when we get lumped in with the whole continent. personally, i don't mind, and maybe its a UK thing, but some people really get cheesed off about it.
I will mind that. I could see where that could irk people.

Congrats, first on the move...that took a lot of balls...sheesh, I'm just relocating to Montreal! All the way to Norway? That rocks pretty hard and yay for you!
Thanks!:) Yeah, this was quite a scary and emotional move. Now that I'm here and getting settled things are much better. Good luck on the Montreal move when it happens.

That's going to take a lot more than a few fun facts about Norway or Europe :D
:P
In the U.S., tips are--or at least so I was taught--15% of the total cost of the meal.
I think the trend is moving toward 20% now. I used to work in customer service, so maybe I'm just overly generous. I know how hard of a job they have. I usually tip between 20% and 25%.

Start by not referring to it as 'Europe. Norway to be specific.' It's Norway. If you want to be less specific, it's Scandinavia.
I will strike "Europe" from my vocabulary. That is actually quite good advice that you and others have given. I would have never realised I was getting on people's nerves saying that.

US people abroad do not have a great reputation for their willingness to try and/or respect things which are (to them) new and exotic. Don't let that worry you - in fact you can very easily turn it to your advantage, simply by not living up to that stereotype. People will be pleasantly surprised, and will warm to you even quicker.
I'm certainly up for trying new things. Especially food. My first time here I discovered the tastiness that is caviar. Yesterday, I tried fish pudding. That was...um... different. The elk liver was fantastic.

I'm also loving the egg cookers the Norwegians seem to have. How efficent.

Don't mention the war. Seriously. We know that you bailed us out, and yes we're grateful, but let it go.

Unless you ever visit England, then mention it repeatedly and at any mention of the Germans, because we haven't let it go.

Unless you ever visit England, then mention it repeatedly and at any mention of the Germans, because we haven't let it go.
But always be sure to sneer and make a hilarious and original quip about being 'late as usual' when any contribution from the United States is mentioned with respect to the War.

Don't be loud and obnoxious and take up 2 seats on public transport like the Americans I've encountered visiting Australia...

But I doubt you'd do that anyway.

Don't be loud and obnoxious and take up 2 seats on public transport like the Americans I've encountered visiting Australia...

But I doubt you'd do that anyway.

I definately won't.:)

Random question; what's the normal time for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Norway? Or is there a normal time? Do Norwegians even eat lunch? It's past 1330 and I don't want to ask because I don't want to seem gluttenous.

I'm already self concious about how much I eat. I don't think I eat more than my Norwegian family, but I still worry about how I'm percieved.

Random question; what's the normal time for breakfast, lunch and dinner in Norway? Or is there a normal time? Do Norwegians even eat lunch? It's past 1330 and I don't want to ask because I don't want to seem gluttenous.

I'm already self concious about how much I eat. I don't think I eat more than my Norwegian family, but I still worry about how I'm percieved.

To be perfectly honest, the best way for you to find answers to your questions is to just ask your host family. Not only is it an opportunity for you to practice your Norwegian, it shows that you're interested in their culture. If there are kids your age in the house I'd suggest talking to them.

I stayed with a Swiss family for a couple of weeks in 1999 and then rented a room from an old crotchety pied noir in France for 6 months in 2007. You'll get a lot more out of it if you engage yourself with your host family/landlord/whatever. My French improved greatly during my time in France, largely because I spent a lot of time drinking tea and discussing things with my landlady rather than sitting in my room on the Internet.

To be perfectly honest, the best way for you to find answers to your questions is to just ask your host family. Not only is it an opportunity for you to practice your Norwegian, it shows that you're interested in their culture. If there are kids your age in the house I'd suggest talking to them.

I stayed with a Swiss family for a couple of weeks in 1999 and then rented a room from an old crotchety pied noir in France for 6 months in 2007. You'll get a lot more out of it if you engage yourself with your host family/landlord/whatever. My French improved greatly during my time in France, largely because I spent a lot of time drinking tea and discussing things with my landlady rather than sitting in my room on the Internet.

I am spending plenty of time talking with the family and kids. I've been putting my self taught Norwegian to use (with much correction from the 5 y/o).

I guess I just don't want to seem rude by asking for more than I should be asking for. I'd rather conform myself to their lifestyle than have them think they must accomodate me.

I guess I just don't want to seem rude by asking for more than I should be asking for. I'd rather conform myself to their lifestyle than have them think they must accomodate me.

That's good, but you could phrase your question differently than "Hey, can I have lunch now?". You could ask instead when means traditionally occur, which meal is the primary meal of the day, what is normally served at these meals, etc.

That's good, but you could phrase your question differently than "Hey, can I have lunch now?". You could ask instead when means traditionally occur, which meal is the primary meal of the day, what is normally served at these meals, etc.

Ah, that's a good idea. I've noticed that Norwegians are extremely polite, so I'm trying to be very careful on my requests. Phrasing it as a general question is a good way around that.

Well, the culture shock is never easy, even more so when you have to live with a bunch of former Vikings turned quasi socialists......butttt,

atleast learning the language will be easy. It's Norwegian! All you have to do is say "herdygerdygerdy herdy" over and over again stressing the vowels differently every time.:p

In the U.S., tips are--or at least so I was taught--15% of the total cost of the meal.

15% is minimum considered acceptable for all but the worst service. 20% is for good service, and up if it is excellent.

15% is minimum considered acceptable for all but the worst service. 20% is for good service, and up if it is excellent.

That's really high. in England it's 10% generally, 15 if it was great service.

That's really high. in England it's 10% generally, 15 if it was great service.

thats cheap. I am an American college student and i still manage to always tip between 15 and 20%. going toward 25% when I get graduate and get a job.

That's really high. in England it's 10% generally, 15 if it was great service.

standard minimum wage in Massachusetts is $8 an hour. Servers, however (bar tenders, waiters, etc) is $2.63. What's more is that we are taxed on our tips, meaning that I would frequently receive a pay check for maybe a dollar or two for a full weeks worth of work (30-40 hours). Tips are servers only actual income.


For me to get a 10% tip, I would have had to ignore a table for about an hour.

And that is a big part of why servers hate tourists/foreigners. All of the travel literature states that tips are somewhat mandatory in the US, and it is even on many menus. Yet they still find it acceptable to tip 5%.
[/rant]

5% is ridiculously low for the most tight walleted English person ever, so what countires are these people from?

atleast learning the language will be easy. It's Norwegian! All you have to do is say "herdygerdygerdy herdy" over and over again stressing the vowels differently every time.:p

That's Swedish, my dear :wink:

Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, they're all the same.

I thought the Europeans were wise to the Canadian trick. I was thinking about saying I was from Guam.:P

It helps if you can speak a little French. Throws them off the scent, 'cause (white) people from the U.S. are usually only capable of speaking one language.

standard minimum wage in Massachusetts is $8 an hour. Servers, however (bar tenders, waiters, etc) is $2.63. What's more is that we are taxed on our tips, meaning that I would frequently receive a pay check for maybe a dollar or two for a full weeks worth of work (30-40 hours). Tips are servers only actual income.


For me to get a 10% tip, I would have had to ignore a table for about an hour.

And that is a big part of why servers hate tourists/foreigners. All of the travel literature states that tips are somewhat mandatory in the US, and it is even on many menus. Yet they still find it acceptable to tip 5%.
[/rant]

Minimum wage in the UK is approximately $10/h. The 10% tip is considered generous here.

Minimum wage in the UK is approximately $10/h. The 10% tip is considered generous here.
Really?

I would say anything over 20% was generous, with 10% being a low tip. If you only tipped 10% in a flashy restaurant, I think you'd get some nasty looks.

I consider 10% as being for fairly decent service.

Aren't most European restaurants a lot more expensive than American restaurants though? 15% on a ten dollar tab is a lot less than 15% on a seventy-five dollar tab...

Aren't most European restaurants a lot more expensive than American restaurants though? 15% on a ten dollar tab is a lot less than 15% on a seventy-five dollar tab...

Yes they are. Was just there.

I also believe today with the increases in the average restuarant ticket in the US a 10% rule is a good one. I still own restaurants and 10% is plenty on a tab that averages about $62 in my restuarants. My full time servers would average about 50k a year if you went with a 10% average. That is the national median income. So considering, it isn't to bad of wage.

Really?

I would say anything over 20% was generous, with 10% being a low tip. If you only tipped 10% in a flashy restaurant, I think you'd get some nasty looks.

A flashy restaurant would be a bill of $150 or so... Imho. So $15 would get bad looks? Remember most states require a min wage. For example if a state had a minimum wage of $8 and that server had 3 tables that all left $15 with an average dining time of lets say 2 hours that server would be making $26.50 an hour. Not bad I say.

Aren't most European restaurants a lot more expensive than American restaurants though? 15% on a ten dollar tab is a lot less than 15% on a seventy-five dollar tab...
Depends on the restaurant. Some are $8 a plate, some are up around $100 or more
Yes they are. Was just there.

I also believe today with the increases in the average restuarant ticket in the US a 10% rule is a good one. I still own restaurants and 10% is plenty on a tab that averages about $62 in my restuarants. My full time servers would average about 50k a year if you went with a 10% average. That is the national median income. So considering, it isn't to bad of wage.
As always, depends on the specific restaurant. I couldn't live if I made 10% working at a Bertuccis or most other places. 10% is significantly low.

A flashy restaurant would be a bill of $150 or so... Imho. So $15 would get bad looks? Remember most states require a min wage. For example if a state had a minimum wage of $8 and that server had 3 tables that all left $15 with an average dining time of lets say 2 hours that server would be making $26.50 an hour. Not bad I say.
Depends entirely on the state. California, minimum wage for servers is $8. That is decent.
Servers in MA, minimum wage is $2.63. Factor in that I am taxed on tips, and I effectively am paid nothing. My paycheck goes straight to assorted governments.

So yes, if you rack up $150, 20 dollars would still be low. If I was decent, I'd expect around 22 or 23, if I was very good, I would be quite happy with 30.

http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/state/tipped.htm

The OP may safely ignore the entire tipping discussion when it comes to Scandinavia. Tipping is not common as a gratuity is almost always covered by the price of the service/product and the staff's wages are negotiated through and set by collective bargains between unions and employer's associations and are thus to be already liveable on their own, but if you feel that you must tip, the percentage gobbledegook is quite inconsequential as you should simply tip something that doesn't insult the service person.

As for a tip about Norway, a quick way to popularity is practising and being decent at some winter sport, and knowing a few Swede/Dane jokes. Also, do not refer to their country as the "last Soviet state". It may very well be in quite many a respect, but it's already caused an international incident when a Swedish minister was honest enough to tell them what we think of their funny government, so on May 17, just wear a lusekofta, praise the royals and waive a flag and try to act smug that you're in the only Scandinavian country that takes their national holiday seriously because they were quite the... ruled people.

I consider 10% as being for fairly decent service.
I give a 10% tip for standard service, but if I've had a good meal, or the waiter/waitress was especially good or helpful, I'd give them 20%.

If I was in a particularly fancy restaurant, I think it's customary to give 20% (in the UK).



A flashy restaurant would be a bill of $150 or so... Imho. So $15 would get bad looks?
In the UK, yes. I don't know about the States.

And by 'flashy', I'm meaning £150/$300+. In any upmarket restaurant, a half-decent bottle of wine is going to set you back about £25/$50 alone, and you'll be paying at least £10-15/$20-30 for a single course. I wouldn't frequent those places myself, indeed I couldn't on my student loan, but a few pals and I went to a reasonably-priced tapas restaurant at the weekend, and were paying £17.50/$35 for wine and £3.50 for each plate of tapas.

Eating out in the UK ain't cheap.

Shit, there's some restaurants in Edinburgh that'll charge you £7/$14 for a glass of wine...

I give a 10% tip for standard service, but if I've had a good meal, or the waiter/waitress was especially good or helpful, I'd give them 20%. If I was in a particularly fancy restaurant, I think it's customary to give 20% (in the UK).


In the UK, yes. I don't know about the States.

And by 'flashy', I'm meaning £150/$300+. A half-decent bottle of wine is going to set you back about £25/$50 alone, and you'll be paying at least £10-15/$20-30 for a single course.

Shit, there's some restaurants in Edinburgh that'll charge you £7/$14 for a glass of wine...

I suppose this is all pretty moot to me anyway. I never tip. Ever. Even if the server did a dance, gave me a blowjob and then farted out a golden duck for me to take home.

As for a tip about Norway, a quick way to popularity is practising and being decent at some winter sport, and knowing a few Swede/Dane jokes. Also, do not refer to their country as the "last Soviet state". It may very well be in quite many a respect, but it's already caused an international incident when a Swedish minister was honest enough to tell them what we think of their funny government, so on May 17, just wear a lusekofta, praise the royals and waive a flag and try to act smug that you're in the only Scandinavian country that takes their national holiday seriously because they were quite the... ruled people.

Im glad to see your not even remotaly prejudice or anything.

Im glad to see your not even remotaly prejudice or anything.

Honey, I've spent more time in Norway than you've spent blowing your nose in your mummy's dress, so do speak of prejudice while your own, omnipresent prejudice about me makes you blind to the post's humorous nature. I always enjoy the irony you half-wittedly and unawareably cause.

Honey, I've spent more time in Norway than you've spent blowing your nose in your mummy's dress, so do speak of prejudice while your own, omnipresent prejudice about me makes you blind to the post's humorous nature. I always enjoy the irony you half-wittedly and unawareably cause.

Ah, jokes about my age. Cute. You think of them all by yourself?

I suppose this is all pretty moot to me anyway. I never tip. Ever. Even if the server did a dance, gave me a blowjob and then farted out a golden duck for me to take home.
I just feel that if I can afford to eat out, I can afford to reward the poor sod who's waiting on me and getting paid fairly poorly for the whole deal.

The OP may safely ignore the entire tipping discussion when it comes to Scandinavia. Tipping is not common as a gratuity is almost always covered by the price of the service/product and the staff's wages are negotiated through and set by collective bargains between unions and employer's associations and are thus to be already liveable on their own, but if you feel that you must tip, the percentage gobbledegook is quite inconsequential as you should simply tip something that doesn't insult the service person.

I'm curious about that last sentence. Would a large tip (in the order of a US-style 15-20%) be considered insulting? I've heard this before, that tipping is like saying "You're poor and need the money". Would the insult be tipping something like just a dollar, or would it be tipping around $20?

I just feel that if I can afford to eat out, I can afford to reward the poor sod who's waiting on me and getting paid fairly poorly for the whole deal.

You are making the assumption that the person waiting on you is poor. A little narrow minded isn't it?

Some but not all waiters and waitresses can make a decent amount of money. I have a waitress that only works one shift a week. She makes about $200 for that night. She uses it as crazy money as she puts it. She works during the week as a hospital administrator. She makes on the low end 90k a year. I have come to never make assumptions about people based on where they work.

Pretend to be Canadian.

sweeet! go canada!!! :D

You are making the assumption that the person waiting on you is poor. A little narrow minded isn't it?
I'm not making any assumption beyond, "that person probably wants a bit more cash". And it's a fact, not an assumption, that waiters and waitresses in the UK get paid poorly (and often get treated like shit by staff and patrons alike).

I don't see why wanting to reward someone for their excellent service is 'narrow-minded'.

I have a waitress that only works one shift a week. She makes about $200 for that night. She uses it as crazy money as she puts it. She works during the week as a hospital administrator. She makes on the low end 90k a year. I have come to never make assumptions about people based on where they work.
But she wouldn't want people to stop giving her tips, would she?

Moreover, I sincerely doubt that the majority of waiting staff are loaded with cash.

You are making the assumption that the person waiting on you is poor. A little narrow minded isn't it?

Some but not all waiters and waitresses can make a decent amount of money. I have a waitress that only works one shift a week. She makes about $200 for that night. She uses it as crazy money as she puts it. She works during the week as a hospital administrator. She makes on the low end 90k a year. I have come to never make assumptions about people based on where they work.

"poor sod" doesn't mean poor as in lacking money...it's poor in the sense of "you have to serve me. I'm sorry. Poor guy"

"poor sod" doesn't mean poor as in lacking money...it's poor in the sense of "you have to serve me. I'm sorry. Poor guy"

got it. :wink:

That's Swedish, my dear :wink:
Indeed :P....but Norwegian is quite close to Swedish (in fact, Swedes and Norwegians can usually understand each other speaking their respective languages, although with some strange looks at times, hehe) so my reaching still should work. ;)

got it. :wink:

haha...appologies if you got that in the first place. Sarky has had a bad day :( haha

5% is ridiculously low for the most tight walleted English person ever, so what countires are these people from?

Australia possibly...

The last time i tipped it was rounding a $386 bill to $400, generally we dont tip - The only reason there was a tip then was a it was group event and everyone put in slightly over what their meal cost.

I'm curious about that last sentence. Would a large tip (in the order of a US-style 15-20%) be considered insulting? I've heard this before, that tipping is like saying "You're poor and need the money". Would the insult be tipping something like just a dollar, or would it be tipping around $20?

I doubt any waiter/tress is ever going to complain about being tipped too much.

I just feel that if I can afford to eat out, I can afford to reward the poor sod who's waiting on me and getting paid fairly poorly for the whole deal."poor sod" doesn't mean poor as in lacking money...it's poor in the sense of "you have to serve me. I'm sorry. Poor guy"
got it. :wink:
Ahh, I didn't realise that there may be confusion there.

Apologies, that's simply my poor choice of words. Pun very much intended.

I just feel that if I can afford to eat out, I can afford to reward the poor sod who's waiting on me and getting paid fairly poorly for the whole deal.

Then again - one should expect people to perform their job to the best of their abilities. If they go beyond the call of duty it is the employers job to pay them more.

Then again - one should expect people to perform their job to the best of their abilities. If they go beyond the call of duty it is the employers job to pay them more.
Wishful thinking at best, especially in an industry that works on the assumption that staff's income will be plumped up by tips (or service charge).

I suppose this is all pretty moot to me anyway. I never tip. Ever. Even if the server did a dance, gave me a blowjob and then farted out a golden duck for me to take home.
As a waiter I advise you to never eat in the same restaurant twice. We always remember the asshole who stiffs us. And most of the time the kitchen staff is very willing to help us urinate in your gravy or any other sauce that covers your food.

Wishful thinking at best, especially in an industry that works on the assumption that staff's income will be plumped up by tips (or service charge).

Of course the answer to that is, get another job. I was a waiter once, it didn't pay too well, so I left and got a better job.

Actually most people hold their knife in their left hand not right.

:confused: I and my fiancee are both left-handed and we hold the cutlery the proper way (that is, knife in the right and fork in the left if used simultaneously).

I just feel that if I can afford to eat out, I can afford to reward the poor sod who's waiting on me and getting paid fairly poorly for the whole deal.

Meh. Here in Italy I never tip - I find it fairly offensive. Workers are supposed to be able to get a decent wage for their job, not to rely on a sort of charity like beggars.
I'm aware that the general feeling in other countries is different, though.

By your standard, you should also tip the tramway driver (they don't get high wages afaik), or the cashier at the supermarket, or the guy at the service station. Meh.

:confused: I and my fiancee are both left-handed and we hold the cutlery the proper way (that is, knife in the right and fork in the left if used simultaneously).

Me too, I don't think I have ever known anyone who holds the knife in their left hand.

Me too, I don't think I have ever known anyone who holds the knife in their left hand.

Thats because sinistrality is beaten out of children in the name of etiquette.

And long may that continue!

The only good place there is Amsterdam.

Meh. Here in Italy I never tip - I find it fairly offensive. Workers are supposed to be able to get a decent wage for their job, not to rely on a sort of charity like beggars.
I'm aware that the general feeling in other countries is different, though.

By your standard, you should also tip the tramway driver (they don't get high wages afaik), or the cashier at the supermarket, or the guy at the service station. Meh.

its not a charity it is part of their wage. and it is incentive to provide better service. also there is a guy who tips 15% and a guy who tips well over 25%. who do you think I am going to take care of better ?
also in many tip paying countries the minimum wage for waiters is below the normal minimum wage. (given if tips are low the employer has to make up the difference to minimum wage.) also it is a great way to hide part of my income from taxes (great for students)

its not a charity it is part of their wage. and it is incentive to provide better service. also there is a guy who tips 15% and a guy who tips well over 25%. who do you think I am going to take care of better ?

You should take care of both to the best of your ability. Otherwise you dserve to get fired. Just like in any other job.

Don't mention the war. Seriously. We know that you bailed us out, and yes we're grateful, but let it go.Hey, soon we will begin pointing out if it we not for the U.S. Europe would have gone red.

Actually most people hold their knife in their left hand not right.

Completely ridiculous. I can't think of anyone that I know who uses knife and fork like that --- it's almost wholly knife in the right hand and fork in the left.

Hey, soon we will begin pointing out if it we not for the U.S. Europe would have gone red.

I prefer to think of it the other way around: if it wasn't for the Reds, Europe would have gone USian.

Don't expect it to be just like home/that your new neighbors will accommodate your quirks?

It helps if you can speak a little French. Throws them off the scent, 'cause (white) people from the U.S. are usually only capable of speaking one language.

In non-francophone countries I can pull that off particularly well as my accent in English is indistinguishable from many Canadian accents to most people. Add my ability to speak French and I can quite convincingly pretend to be Canadian (and if I'm caught by a real Canadian I know Sault Sainte Marie well enough to pretend to be from there). Of course, my French isn't Quebecois, nor does it sound quite like most anglophone Canadians' French so that's where the whole thing falls down.

Europeans carry this viral disease called "Socialism", watch out for it as they constantly try to infect outsiders. It's an airborne disease that travels out of their bodies orally and begins by infecting the ear canal. They may try and tell you that it is beneficial by showing you their "Universal Health Care" or some other cheap parlour trick.

NOTE: I'm Joking, don't rip my head off.

its not a charity it is part of their wage. and it is incentive to provide better service. also there is a guy who tips 15% and a guy who tips well over 25%. who do you think I am going to take care of better ?
Here in Italy, it isn't part of the wage. Also, a professional waiter is supposed to take care of the customers in the very same way. Also because waiters don't get tipped BEFORE serving. They get tipped after that, so how can they guess how much you're going to tip them?

also in many tip paying countries the minimum wage for waiters is below the normal minimum wage.
Huh? That would be illegal, at least here. The minimum wage here in Italy is fixed by a nationwide collective labour contract (different for any category of workers and being signed by the industries' unions and the workers' unions).

also it is a great way to hide part of my income from taxes (great for students)
Possibily the best reason NOT to tip. Why should my taxpaying, law-abiding self help someone evade the taxes and break the laws? :mad: Pay yer own bloody taxes will ya!

Here in Italy, it isn't part of the wage. Also, a professional waiter is supposed to take care of the customers in the very same way. Also because waiters don't get tipped BEFORE serving. They get tipped after that, so how can they guess how much you're going to tip them?


Huh? That would be illegal, at least here. The minimum wage here in Italy is fixed by a nationwide collective labour contract (different for any category of workers and being signed by the industries' unions and the workers' unions).


Possibily the best reason NOT to tip. Why should my taxpaying, law-abiding self help someone evade the taxes and break the laws? :mad: Pay yer own bloody taxes will ya!

Unfortunately the UK had a very bad system that allowed the employer to divert the tips into their takings and then use that to make wages up to minimum wage. Thankfully this ridiculous state of affairs has been changed
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7533863.stm

You had some good and funny advice from the other posts, so here's my two bits:

Don't worry - plenty of people actually like Yanks. Well maybe not all Yanks. But you answered your own question - be respectful. Many people who actually like or are prepared to like Americans test them with jokes (often ones that feature Americans). Laugh at these unless they are too offensive. Test yourself on this one:
What did the Texan say when his dog went over the cliff?
Answer: Dog-gone!

Be modest - accept that Norwegians (or their descendants) discovered America - Lief Ericsson called it Vinland. But remind them that the American Indians got their first and so they discovered it.

Remember to say "Skol!" while drowning your throat in Norwegian beer. Learn a few more words in Norwegian as well. Go skiing with them. In fact, Americans are at their best when doing physical and practical things - but isn't everybody?

Here in Italy, it isn't part of the wage. Also, a professional waiter is supposed to take care of the customers in the very same way. Also because waiters don't get tipped BEFORE serving. They get tipped after that, so how can they guess how much you're going to tip them?

you never eat at the same restaurant twice ?? believe I remember who is a good tipper and who is a bad tipper and we tell our co workers.

Huh? That would be illegal, at least here. The minimum wage here in Italy is fixed by a nationwide collective labour contract (different for any category of workers and being signed by the industries' unions and the workers' unions).
well it is waiter minimum wage. it is legal provided that if the waiter doesn't make the normal minimum wage from tips in that hour the employer pays the difference. yeah well normally my tips have me make about 20 dollars an hour (or about 4 times the US minimum wage) so I will take my tip paying job.


Possibily the best reason NOT to tip. Why should my taxpaying, law-abiding self help someone evade the taxes and break the laws? :mad: Pay yer own bloody taxes will ya!
Seems to be a cultural difference. In the US we all help each other avoid taxes. if i am getting contract work(say a plumber). I pay in cash that way he can give me a discount and write the service as shorter then it was for tax purposes.

you never eat at the same restaurant twice ?? believe I remember who is a good tipper and who is a bad tipper and we tell our co workers.

And your employer does not mind you discriminate customers, who I assume all pay for their food ?

And your employer does not mind you discriminate customers, who I assume all pay for their food ?

we serve all customers seated. However, if I know someone is going to screw me, they aren't my priority. If I know someone usually tips very well, say, 25%, I will generally bend over backwards for them.

We had two tables of regulars.

Table one wasn't the best table, but not the worst either. One would ask for a refill of water, then the next, then the last two. They would ask for extra salsa, then for more guacamole. Their orders had frequent modifications, sometimes making the meal served nothing like what was actually ordered. At the end of the meal, they would tip anywhere from 25-35%.

Table two was a decent table. They would ask for waters all at once, but would scatter when they asked for things from the kitchen. They would order pretty simple things, with a few mods. They plowed through water enough that I would often just leave a pitcher for them. They would usually tip 10-15%.

We had to do more work for table one, but liked them much more, and would be more willing to do the extra work, rather than looking at it as a hassle (no complaints when I have to get an extra salad dressing when I just got them some more oyster crackers compared to "table 12. Look who's back and asking for another fucking salad dressing"

They all get served, and I don't serve anyone intentionally poorly. But my A game is going to my money customers. If that means my shitty table has to wait an extra two or three minutes for their check, so be it. I wasn't getting money out of them anyway, but can't afford to lose my best table.

Thats because sinistrality is beaten out of children in the name of etiquette.

And long may that continue!

You sir, are at the top of my list.

It's nothing personal. It's just the whole lefty-agenda thing and all.

I'll send your family a fruit basket. It's not like I'm cruel, or anything. ;)

I'm a well educated American, and I have a question:

What is this "yer...op"?

Is that the place where terrorists come from? 'Cause our leaders say other places are where terrorists come from.

you never eat at the same restaurant twice ?? believe I remember who is a good tipper and who is a bad tipper and we tell our co workers.

Actually, I do, and get served very well and very kindly. In the occasional restaurant where I don't get served well and kindly at the first time, I never come back.
And I never tip.
I guess it's one of the differences between Italy and the US.


In the US we all help each other avoid taxes. if i am getting contract work(say a plumber). I pay in cash that way he can give me a discount and write the service as shorter then it was for tax purposes.
See, as employee, I can't evade taxes - here the taxes of employees are directly taken from the pay by the employer, who then turns the amount to the Tax Agency.
Same goes if I call a plumber: I don't pay him "in black" (as we say here, that is whitout asking for a formal receipt so he discounts the taxes). I prefer to pay more and follow the law so 1-I'm sure he will be taxed for what he earns just like I am, this means that the State need to take less money from myself, and 2-in some cases, I can use that receipt to get a discount from my own taxes (here you can discount from the taxes a percentage of what you paid for contract workers restructuring your home).

Btw, taxes are supposed to be payed by everyone according to his capacity; and, in democracies, if you find that taxation is unjust, you have means to have the laws changed.

im curious - what happens if it is a quiet night, ie almost no customers? - Do you get pay made up to the $20? the $5? or is the crap nominal wage you are supposed to get it?

I thought the Europeans were wise to the Canadian trick. I was thinking about saying I was from Guam.:P

Guam is U.S. Territory. American by Association. :p

im curious - what happens if it is a quiet night, ie almost no customers? - Do you get pay made up to the $20? the $5? or is the crap nominal wage you are supposed to get it?

It may vary from state to state, but I can tell you how it worked in the state of Washington. In Washington state, if your total weekly earnings didn't add up to a regular minimum wage paycheck, then your employer had to make up the difference.

Guam is U.S. Territory. American by Association. :p

Yeah, but I figured it would be just different enough. Plus, Guam people can't vote in the US election, so they couln't really be held accountable for stupid American tricks. :D

and what is the actual minimum wage in Washington State?

and what is the actual minimum wage in Washington State?

$8.07/hr. It has the highest state minimum wage in the US. Also, after looking at the site, the minimum wage exemption for servers is no longer in effect. Back when it was in effect the minimum wage was something like $5.30/ hr and servers could be paid a little over half that per hour.

I never liked the law anyway. It's like expecting the restaurant's patrons to pay for the food and the server. A tip should be extra, not instead of.

ok...
that doesnt seem too bad then anymore... bad being a relative term there...

According to wikipedia ours is:
From 1 October 2007, the Australia standard Federal Minimum Wage is $13.74 per hour or $522.12 per week.

but soon to be:
From 1 October 2008, the Australia standard Federal Minimum Wage is $14.31 per hour or $543.78 per week.

Indeed :P....but Norwegian is quite close to Swedish (in fact, Swedes and Norwegians can usually understand each other speaking their respective languages, although with some strange looks at times, hehe) so my reaching still should work. ;)

I don't think you should tell any Norwegians that :tongue:

I don't think you should tell any Norwegians that :tongue:

Just make sure you know which country you're in before ordering icecream.

I've recently (as in under 24 hrs) moved to Europe. Norway to be specific. I want to do my best to not be an idiot in this part of the world. Proper etiquette and manners are very important to me.

I'm hoping the good folks of NSG could enlighten me on the do's and don'ts in this part of the world. I'd like to be minimally irritating and as polite as I could be.

What every American should know about Europe.

That it exists? That'd be a good start...